Kindness In the Community

Yearning for a Friendly Face

By Mary Andres Russell

For decades, I traveled all over the country for business.  During those busy times of travel, I remember yearning for the kindness of my mother and her warm and welcoming home.  

Air travel is often a cold and unfriendly experience.  Most travelers are focused on their phones and don’t give each other the time of day.  Some airline employees are friendly and helpful, but certainly not all.  

Of course, any experience depends on what we put out there, and I do recall having fun in an airport on a day that just happened to be my birthday.  I told my fellow airport diners, who were more than happy to celebrate with me.  And on my very last business trip before retiring, I told my seatmates about the momentous occasion, one of whom wanted to know about my career and experience.  

Back to mom — as often as I could between trips, I would visit.  She would welcome me with a warm smile, a listening ear, a gentle demeanor, and a home-cooked meal.  It was balm for the soul.    

This month, how can you be that warm and welcoming place for others, even if that means showing courtesy and kindness in the airport?  

The Links below will take you to Resources you can use with the family or within community organizations
to teach the Character Quality of Kindness.

Related Qualities: Kindness>>

The following activities are related to dates this month and can relate to any character quality or good character in general.

Our other Pillars have resources that can be used in a community or family setting.

Visit Kindness in Faith>>

Christian Family Activity
Bible Verses
Christian Poster
Prayer and Reflections
Archived Resources